PAD can lead to pain while walking (claudication), non-healing wounds, and in severe cases, limb loss if left untreated.

TYPES OF PAD

• - Lower limb PAD (most common)
• - Upper limb PAD
• - Critical Limb Ischemia (advanced stage)

WHO IS AT RISK? (Risk Factors)

• - Age above 50 years
• - Smoking or tobacco use
• - Diabetes
• - High blood pressure
• - High cholesterol
• - Obesity & sedentary lifestyle

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• - Leg pain while walking (relieved by rest)
• - Coldness in lower leg or foot
• - Numbness or weakness
• - Slow or non-healing wounds on feet
• - Change in skin color (pale/blue)
• - Weak or absent pulse in legs

HOW IS PAD DIAGNOSED?

Consult a vascular specialist immediately if symptoms are present.

• - Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
• - Doppler Ultrasound
• - CT Angiography / MR Angiography
• - Digital Subtraction Angiography

WHAT HAPPENS IF UNTREATED?

Untreated PAD can progress to Critical Limb Ischemia, leading to severe pain, infections, gangrene, and possible amputation.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

1. Medical Management:

• - Lifestyle modification (quit smoking, exercise)
• - Control diabetes, BP & cholesterol
• - Blood thinners & medications

2. Endovascular Treatment:

• - Balloon Angioplasty
• - Stent Placement
• - Atherectomy (plaque removal)

3. Surgical Treatment:

• - Bypass Surgery
• - Endarterectomy

ADVANTAGES OF MODERN TREATMENT

• - Minimally invasive procedures
• - Faster recovery
• - Short hospital stay
• - Reduced risk of complications

Early diagnosis and timely treatment can save limbs and improve quality of life.